By Aggrey Twesigye
Schools from Central Region have emerged as the top performers at this year’s Father Grimes National Schools Chess Championship, outshining competitors from across the country.
The week-long tournament, hosted at Ntare School in Mbarara city, began on Sunday, May 3, 2026, and concluded on Wednesday, May 6.
It attracted more than 2,000 participants from both primary and secondary schools nationwide, marking the first time the prestigious event has been held outside Kampala.
In the secondary school category, St. Henry’s Kitoovu successfully defended the boys’ title for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its dominance in the competition.
Meanwhile, Wampeewo Ntakke secondary school team claimed the overall girls’ championship title for 2026.
At the primary level, Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School continued its strong performance by retaining the boys’ title.
The school’s girls’ team also excelled, defeating rivals to claim this year’s championship.
Speaking at the event, Uganda Chess Federation President Andrew Bakiiza highlighted efforts to expand the sport, noting that 50 chess boards had been distributed to schools in the region to promote the game.
He encouraged students to embrace chess, emphasizing its role in enhancing critical thinking and mental development.
Bakiiza also announced that Uganda will host the upcoming African Youth Chess Championship at Entebbe Botanical Beach Hotel from May 14 to 23, 2026.
The continental event is expected to attract participants from 30 countries, and all Ugandans under the age of 18 are eligible to compete.
Ian Nyesiga, Regional President of the Western Region Chess Association, underscored the importance of chess in education.
He noted ongoing efforts to engage school administrators about the benefits of the game, adding that increased participation helps learners develop critical thinking skills.
